A jeweler's loupe is an instrument for examining diamonds. Whether you really need to explore a gem or if you just want to play around, this guide will help you to use a loupe correctly. Get your exam area ready. You'll need to be in an area with lots of light. Find a place in your home or office lots of direct light - doesn't matter if it is natural or artificial.  In the best circumstances, you would have diamond lamp, but it is not absolutely necessary. You can do wonders with a desk lamp and a powerful bulb. Have a towel or cloth beneath on the table to stop the diamond from falling if you drop it.

Expand the loupe. The loupe is small when folded. If you want to use it, you need to unfold it very carefully. Dropping it may damage the lens. When you have it extended, the loupe should form a straight line, resembling a small magnifying glass. Putting one finger through the opening to keep from dropping it, get the loupe in your hand. Steadily grip it so as not to drop it.

Bring the diamond close to your eyes. Now you have the loupe ready and gripped, you need to get hold of the diamond properly. Get the diamond around the outer edges (known as the girdle of the diamond) with your fingers. Holding a diamond with tweezers is not recommended unless you are an expert because the diamond could become scratched. Bring the loupe to your eye once you have the diamond in position. Get the loupe as close as you can while still being comfortable. Stop the loupe from moving with your cheek. Position the diamond close to the lens.

The loupe is meant to be a stationary examination tool. To bring the diamond into better focus you must move the stone. Move the diamond forward or backwards to get focus. You will actually be able to see the diamond facets when you are using it correctly. Close your other eye so that you can examine the diamond through the loupe without distraction.

The diamond should be positioned for a slanted view. You will be able to look at all the angles of the diamond by looking it at with a loupe. Just turn the diamond between your fingers to see it different ways. Avoid getting too many fingerprints on the sides or facets of the diamond.